Long Road Distillers Amaro Pazzo

Bottoms Up

By Lynda Wheatley | Dec. 29, 2018

Amaro, a centuries-old Italian herbal liqueur, is experiencing a rebirth of popularity in America. And if you ask us, the timing couldn’t be better for Long Road Distillers version, released just this month. Its Amaro Pazzo (57 proof, 28.5% ABV), made with Michigan-grown red winter wheat and blended with a special coffee blend concocted by its Grand Rapids neighbor Madcap Coffee, is — as the ancient Romans intended — an ideal way to say goodbye to gluttony (read: your holiday indulgences) and wake up to the New Year. Remember: The name Amaro means bitter, and alone, is intended as an aperitif. Amaro Pazzo’s proprietary blend of herbs and spices — think: wormwood, gentian, chicory, orange peel, myrrh, and more — are nothing if not strong and restorative. But if the bitter and complex finish that follows its initial pop of sweet and citrus proves too medicinal for you, as it did for many on our staff, we highly recommend ringing in 2019 with Long Road’s own cocktail Siciliano: 1.5 ounces each of Amaro Pazzo, sweet vermouth, and a strong cold brew, stirred into one ounce of Long Road Bar Syrup, then strained into a glass, topped with 1 ounce of club soda and garnished with an orange peel. Try some at Long Road’s new tasting room in Boyne City, 118 Water St. (231) 459-4393, www.longroaddistillers.com